Community Solar Phase II is Now Producing
Sun Power >>>
Dr. Bill can now say he’s generally “off the
grid” with his electric use because he
purchased the maximum shares he could
in our Community Solar Project. Phase 1
was commissioned last year and Phase II
was plugged into the grid on June 12 of
this year. Phase I is sold out, but there’s
still room in Phase II for members
interested in being a share owner.
Dr. William Faber, known to most as
Dr. Bill, of Cushing, is a college instructor
of wildlife and natural resources at Central
Lakes College. He holds a bachelor of
science degree in wildlife management
from the University of Minnesota and
master of science and doctorate degrees in
wildlife ecology from the Swedish
University of Agricultural Sciences, where
his research focused on moose. He is a
board member of the Minnesota chapter
of The Wildlife Society and the
Minnesota Sharp-Tailed Grouse Society,
in addition to being an active member of
the Minnesota Conservation Federation,
Theodore Roosevelt Conservation
Partnership, and the National Wildlife
Federation. He was appointed by the
Governor of Minnesota as a citizen

member to the Legislative-Citizen
Commission on Minnesota Resources.
Dr. Bill lives what he teaches and we’re
proud to have him as a member of Crow
Wing Power.
Bill was one of the first to purchase the
maximum amount of shares we allowed
in our Phase I project in 2017 and one of
the first to jump on our second Phase II
this year. Bill says, “I tell my students, it’s
not Do as I say, it’s Do as I do.” He
quoted a famous Cultural Anthropologist,
Margaret Mead who said Never believe
that a few caring people can't change the
world. For, indeed, that's all who ever have.
The new Community solar array is
located at our Swanburg Outpost east of
Pine River on Highway 1. Its output can
be viewed online at the top of our web
pages as Solar Phase II. Last year’s first
Community Solar array was built by our
headquarters along Highway 371. Its
output can be seen as Solar Phase I.
The cost of one share is $1,300 and one
share is the equivalent of about 400 to
500 kWhs per year. For more
information go to www.cwpower.com
and visit Community Solar.

Dr. Bill, stands in his pollinator garden with
a couple of solar panels that heat his hot
water, particularly when the sun shines on
it in the morning. Bill has an 80 gallon
water heater that stores the solar heated
water. It was installed in 2010 by Rural
Renewable Energy Alliance (RREAL). Bill
said it really cut back on his electric bill.

Co-op Calendar Contest
tions
With the success of our first calendar contest, we
are doing a 2019 calendar. To enter the contest,
please submit your scenic photos of Minnesota to
us. If your photo is chosen for the calendar, you
will receive a $25 electric bill credit. We will have
a spiral bound calendar produced and available in
early December.
Guidelines for the contest:

● Only Crow Wing Power members may enter
the contest. (CWP employees and their
immediate families are not eligible to enter the
contest.)
● Send your photos electronically. Photos must be
scenic capturing the beauty of Minnesota’s four
seasons. Photos must not include people.
● One membership (household) may
submit up to 5 photos.
● Only landscape orientation photos will be
accepted. Need to be sized for printing 12 inches
wide by 9 inches high. 300 dpi minimum quality.
● To submit photos, go to www.cwpower.com,
go to News/Events, click on Photo Contest and
fill out the entire form including the photo.
Deadline for submission(s) is October 1, 2018. To
see last years samples, go to our website.

Join us for a three day, two night
bus trip to see how your power is
generated in North
Dakota…Page 3.

A Word from
Your CEO
We Believe in Shop Local and Buy American >>>
We here at Crow Wing not only support, but truly believe in the
“Buy American Policy” implemented by the United States
Department of Agriculture (USDA). As borrowers of the Rural
Utilities (RUS) we are required to Buy American whenever
possible.
The majority of the equipment and material we purchase is not
only made in the USA but in the Upper Midwest and
Minnesota.
Safety and personal protective equipment, transformers,
regulators, insulators, overhead wire, underground cable are all
made in America.
Large substation transformers are made by our neighbors in
Wisconsin.
There are many Crow Wing Power members that own and
operate stores, restaurants and other businesses in our service
territory. We try to patronize them as much as possible. The
national chain stores and large members add jobs and security to
the economic health of the community.
Our Community Solar project is approximately 80% American
made, however, there are some components that just are not

available in the United States. The assembly of the components
and the panels are all done with American labor.
Our Co-op Connections Card, which was the brain child of our
Public Relations Manager, Char Kinzer, was implemented in
2001 to support and promote local business. The program has
gone national with huge success. Crow Wing Power alone has
118 members participating which allows you to receive discounts
at their establishments when using the Co-op Connections Card.
Five local Chambers of Commerce have launched a program
called “Lakes Proud”. Nisswa, Pequot Lakes, Crosslake, Brainerd
and Cuyuna Lakes Chambers launched the Lakes Proud in Sept.
2015. The promotion has many locally-owned businesses and
community people pledging to promote and support the concept.
Both Crow Wing Power and People’s Security are members of
“Lakes Proud”.
We here at Crow Wing Power truly believe and support “Buy
American” and “Lakes Proud”.
I’ll keep you informed,
Bruce L. Kraemer
CEO

Director’s View
Member Appreciation Day A Huge Success >>>
By Paul Koering
Great weather, good food and fun
entertainment were enjoyed by 2,000
people who attended our 81st annual
Member Appreciation Day and Annual Meeting on June 9.
Kids were able to ride horses led by the Crow Wing County
Sheriff ’s Mounted Patrol. They also used remote controls to
direct our digger truck like it happens in real life only with an
auger.
Virg and the Eldorados was again a big hit, playing to members
kicking up their heels. And, Chris Cakes once again flipped
pancakes for people to catch on their plates.

2

The election resulted in two incumbents being re-elected and
the filling of an open seat. Bob Kangas ran unopposed in
District 1A and received 4,422 votes. LuAnn Nelson received
3,104 in her District 2 At-Large, followed by Carl Younce with
617 votes; Kristin Graham with 610 votes and James
Hawkinson who received 367.
In District 3B, a seat left open by the passing of Ken Miller was
won by Ric Larson with 1,296 votes. Patricia Kasella had 1,116
votes; James Mecklenburg’s 854 votes; Ron Miller’s 739 votes
and David Johnson who had 725 votes.
Enjoy your summer!

t he po wer o f huma n con nect io ns • www. cwpo wer. co m

Ric Larson Elected by Membership as New Director >>>
By Ric Larson
As I begin my board membership on
behalf of District 3B, I find myself
deeply appreciative for all the people
who voted for me, for the board of
directors that has provided steady
leadership through the years, and for
the management team that guides the company so effectively.
I am also appreciative of the history and contributions of
cooperatives, which is why I decided to seek a board position.
I learned about coops as a partner in a family farm, and I highly
respect their connections and service to the community.
Currently I am focused on learning about the business and the
industry, which is not easy. For example, I was surprised at my
first board meeting in June about the range and number of
decisions the board makes at every meeting. Now I'm busily

digging into the detail and am looking forward to the MREA's
two-day orientation for new board members.
In addition to my work on the board, I have been appointed to
the Finance Committee, the Economic Development
Committee and the Credit Union Board of Directors. Because
of my strong finance and banking background, I hope to bring
new ideas and insights to these groups, adding value wherever
I'm able.
We know that Crow Wing's future will be measured both by
our ability to seize opportunities and also our ability to
anticipate and respond to challenges in the energy environment.
I ask for and welcome your thoughts about the issues we are
facing. Only by working together will we succeed.

Travel With Crow Wing Power Learn About Your Cooperative Power Supply System >>>
Join Crow Wing Power on a 3 day/2 night excursion to learn
about where your electricity comes from, and have some fun
along the way. The trip is scheduled for October 2 – 4. The
cost is $120 per person and includes two nights lodging in
Bismarck and four meals. Seating is limited to 50 people.

The Coteau Properties Company Freedom Mine – Learn how
lignite coal is produced at a surface mine and how the land is
returned to its original state. A guided drive-through tour will
bring you to active mining areas where you can see giant
earthmoving equipment in action.

Crow Wing Power encourages members to get the inside story
of how electricity is made. This trip includes stops at the
following:

Nextera Energy’s Wilton Wind Energy Center – Drive through
a wind project operated by a longtime partner of Basin
Electric, and learn
about wind
energy’s role
in the larger
power supply
picture.

Antelope Valley Station – The tour includes an overview in the
model room as well as a guided walking tour of the power plant.
The walking tour includes stops at the turbine deck, control
room, boiler and observation deck on the 17th floor.
Great Plains Synfuels Plant – Learn how coal can be refined
into natural gas and a variety of other products. The visitor
center tour includes a model room tour where a guide walks
participants through each step in the coal gasification process
and describes the various products that result.

As a member of Crow Wing Power you receive a FREE card to receive special discounts from all area
pharmacies and local and national retailers.
Save this list – NEW businesses are continually added. This list updated 7/6/2018.
Specific discounts may change as businesses promote varying specials. Watch for new listings in the
Current Connection newsletter or click on “Coop Connections Card” at www.cwpower.com. If you’ve
misplaced your card or need information, call the cooperative at 218-829-2827 or 1-800-648-9401.
For national deals go to www.connections.coop.

AUTOMOTIVE
BRANDL MOTORS, Little Falls Only $1 over original factory invoice, plus get all customer rebates...................................................................................................................320-632-2908, 866-332-6689
Buy one oil change for $89.95 and get next three free (some exclusions apply).
CROSSLAKE AUTO BODY Free set of wiper blades (up to $20 value) with any windshield replacement ....................................................................................................................................218-692-5000
HOUSTON FORD, Pine River 10% off parts or service on a bill of $100 or more (not valid with other discounts) ..................................................................................................................800-782-0056
LAKES AUDIO, Baxter 10% off remote starters installed; 10% off marine and car audio; 10% off detailing ................................................................................................................................218-829-5529
MILLS GM, Baxter Service work discount (call for discount) ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................218-829-3504
ROC DETAIL, Brainerd 10% off any automotive and boat detail service, 10% off truck accessories, 10% off bed liners ............................................................................................................218-454-1620
SOUND CONNECTION, Baxter 10% off remote start/heated seats installed; 10% off marine and car audio (not valid with other offers) ............................................................................218-825-1916

MEDICAL
ASSOCIATES IN EYECARE, Baxter/Nisswa/Pine River 10% off a complete pair of eyewear. No other discounts apply. ..........................................................................................................218-829-1789
GREAT RIVER EYE CLINIC (formerly Crosby Eye Clinic) Crosby & Baxter 40% off frames with purchase of prescription lenses. Offer not valid if covered by insurance.
20% discount on non-prescription eyewear, not including contacts or contract safety eyewear. No other discounts apply. ..............................................................................................................800-952-3766
MIDWEST FAMILY EYE CENTER, Baxter 15% off a complete pair of eyewear. No other discounts apply ..............................................................................................................................218-828-9545
NORTHLAND SMILES DENTAL CARE, (dental clinic) Deerwood 15% discount with full payment at the time of service. ................................................................................................218-534-3141
PEARLE VISION, Baxter 30% off a complete pair of glasses. No other discounts apply ..................................................................................................................................................................218-828-4024
SAZAMA FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS, Baxter 20% discount on all organic nutritional supplement, cleanse and all wellness products. ....................................................218-454-4545
4

Discounts subject to change; some restrictions may apply; see www.cwpower.com for detailed offers.
PHARMACY DISCOUNTS: You can use your card for prescription drugs at area pharmacies. Your pharmacist can check the discount card against your current insurance to see
which is better, depending upon the type of drug.
Crow Wi ng Powe r: 8 29-28 27 or 1- 80 0-6 4 8- 940 1

5

Your Credit Union Offers Great Products & Services >>>
Crow Wing Power Credit Union (CWPCU) was established to
offer money saving financial services to Crow Wing Power
members and their families. If you haven’t joined CWPCU,
you’re missing the opportunity to experience great products and
services.

Fixed Rate Mortgages

Time to Start Saving

Vehicles, Boats, RV’s – Rates as low as 2.49%**

The Credit Union offers Savings Accounts and Certificates of
Deposit to help you save for a secure future. Certificate rates are
as high as 2.17% APY*. You can choose a 6, 12 or 24 month
Certificate. If you are interested in an IRA you can invest in an
IRA Savings account or a 12 or 24 month IRA Certificate. You
can also save with a Holiday Savings Account and a Totally Free
Checking Account. Totally Free Checking includes free debit
cards, online and mobile apps and free checks.

NO closing costs on Home Equity Loans
Rates as low as 3.24% (APR)**
CWPCU offers in-house mortgage options that include home
equity loans and home equity lines of credit. If you owe less than
$100,000, they can refinance the loan with no closing cost or
expense unless an appraisal is required. CWPCU will finance
your primary residence, your cabin or bare land.

In addition to the home equity options, the Credit Union can
assist you with a 15, 20 or 30 year fixed rate mortgage. Rates are
still historically low so it’s not too late to refinance to a lower rate
or purchase that dream home or cabin!
Whether you are purchasing or refinancing, CWPCU should be
able to save you money.
• No down payment – 100% financing includes tax, title, &
license;
• Pre-approval before you buy;
• Refinance loans from other institutions to lower your rate or
change your terms;
• Ask how you can save .50% for the first year.
Visit their website www.cwpcu.org for more information or to
complete an application. You may also contact the Credit Union
at 218-829-2827 or 1-800-648-9401 for more detailed
information.
*Annual percentage yield. Rates subject to change without notice.
**Annual percentage rate. Rate based on credit score so your rate may be higher. Current
CWPCU loans are not eligible for these special rates. Crow Wing Power Credit Union
NMLS #408088.

Secure document shredding
coming October 15-19

Arming and Disarming your Security System can be as Simple as 1 – 2 – 3! >>>
Do you find that you are not using your security system as often as
you thought you would? Is it because you are worried about
activating the alarm while arming the security system before you
leave your home or cabin? Is it because you now live at the
property full time or you are already in bed and do not want to get
back up just to set your security system for the night?
Unfortunately, home invasions are a reality in our world today.
Take advantage of your security system.
The keypad is not your only option for arming and disarming your
security system.
With the addition of
a Keyfob and/or
Total Connect
services you do not
even need to touch
the keypad for the
security system. The
Keyfob allows you

6

to simply push the lock button and your system is ready to do its
job of protecting your home. Keep an extra keyfob or your
smartphone on your nightstand and you can arm your system right
from bed for a peaceful night’s sleep knowing that if the unexpected
were to happen the authorities would be alerted.
Now through September 1, we are offering 2 FREE Keyfobs with
the purchase of a new monitored security system or for those
adding Total Connect to their existing systems*.
Call us at 218-828-4828 or 1-800-735-1440.
Being a customer of People’s Security
Company gives peace of mind to all who
have a monitored security system.
*There may be additional equipment costs depending on your
current system capabilities. Cannot be combined with any
other offers.

Make dressing first by combining the pineapple juice, butter, sugar and lemon juice in a small
saucepan. Heat to boiling. Combine the cornstarch and water to make a smooth paste and add
to the hot mixture and cook until thick and smooth. Chill before stirring in the mayo and yogurt.
Combine apples, pineapple chunks, grapes and poppy seeds in large bowl. Add chilled dressing
and refrigerate. Stir in pecans right before serving.

Yes, I’d like to join the Co-op Cookin’ Club and receive a new recipe card
each month in the mail. I understand there is no charge.
Name:______________________________________________________
Address:_____________________________________________________

Summer is Construction Season >>>
Summer is construction season in Minnesota, and it’s no exception
for Crow Wing Power. Some of the work plans we have include
underground cable replacement. Other jobs come up because of
road construction or general maintenance and building projects.
Members along County Road 4 east of Nisswa and County Road
18 south of Breezy Point have seen crews working to replace
underground cable. That’s an area where we have about two and
one half miles of older underground cable.

That area experienced an underground fault outage that began
about 10:30 a.m. on July 5th after storms hit. Because of the
storms and probably lightning, we experienced a lengthy outage
for 677 of those same residents in that same area. Underground
faults take longer to restore and find damage locations, because we
have to carefully restore power from both ends of the cable in
controlled fashion, until we know the exact location. Therefore,
although some members’ power were restored more quickly, it
wasn’t until 2:00 in the afternoon, until all were restored.
A road project in Baxter involving an installation of a round-about
on Excelsior Road, had our crews moving underground cable from
under the pavement, so our lines would be accessible and not
buried under the round-about.
South of Baxter along Hwy 371, where road construction is
underway, we are replacing some older underground cable to
insure reliability.
So, while July seems to be a busy time chasing storm damage and
restoring power night and day, there’s always plenty of work for
maintenance and new home/business construction and expansion
when skies are clear.
Matt Ackerman buries newly laid underground cable
that he finished splicing near Leader on July 11.

Complete the word find puzzle below, clip and send entire coupon back to us by
September 20, 2018. We’ve sized it to fit in your billing payment, so you can save a stamp.
If you’d rather, you can send it separately to Crow Wing Power, PO Box 507, Brainerd, MN
56401. Attn: Puzzle or scan and email to info@cwpower.com. The winning entry will be drawn
on September 20.
Our winner for the last puzzle: Loretta Krych, Pierz
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